Wines Unspecified Ilocki Podrumi - Ledena Berba Traminac - 2012

This 2012 "Cuvée Ledena Berba Traminac" from Ilocki Podrumi hails from Slavonia, a region in the east of Croatia famed for its long tradition of winemaking. The term "Ledena Berba" translates as "ice harvest," indicating this is an ice wine, a rare and labour-intensive style crafted from grapes harvested and pressed while frozen. Traminac is the local name for Traminer—commonly linked to Gewürztraminer—suggesting an aromatic variety at the heart of this luscious, sweet white. Expect an evocative nose, with notes potentially reminiscent of rose petals, lychee, honey, and orange blossom, though the precise character will depend on vintage conditions. On the palate, ice wines typically balance intense sweetness with vibrant acidity, creating a luxurious, mouth-coating texture and a lingering, fresh finish.

Slavonia's continental climate, marked by hot summers and cold winters, is ideally suited to the production of dessert wines. The region’s soils, often loamy and alluvial near the Danube, help grapes reach good ripeness while preserving crucial natural acidity. Ilocki Podrumi itself is one of Croatia’s historic cellars, with a winemaking heritage reaching back centuries. The tradition of ice wine in this part of eastern Croatia is celebrated, as the climate regularly permits the necessary freezing of grapes on the vine, which is essential for authentic ice wine production.

Pair this Croatian ice wine with rich, tangy blue cheeses, creamy desserts such as panna cotta or cheesecake, or delicacies featuring stone fruits and nuts. For a truly local touch, enjoy it alongside Slavonian walnut pastries. Its honeyed sweetness and lively acidity will also cut beautifully through foie gras or pâté.

For the best tasting experience, serve this wine well-chilled, at 6-8°C. This ensures the wine’s sweetness remains balanced by its acidity and freshness, allowing the bouquet and finesse of this rare Slavonian ice wine to shine.